The digital world is becoming increasingly dangerous. Every day, new threats emerge that target companies and private individuals. The Lumma Stealer for example, infected almost 400,000 Windows PCs between March and May 2025 - an alarming sign of growing cybercrime.

In this threatening environment, the Cyber insurance is becoming increasingly important. But can it really be regarded as the key to digital security? Or is it merely a building block in a more comprehensive protection concept?

While technical protection measures form the first line of defence, specialized insurance offers financial protection in the event of a successful attack. The increasing amounts of damage caused by data loss, business interruptions and blackmail software illustrate the economic dimension of these threats.

Companies in Germany are faced with the challenge of designing their IT security strategy holistically. The question is no longer, whether an attack takes place, but when - and how well you are prepared for it.

Important findings

  • Cyber attacks are on the rise, as shown by the Lumma Stealer with 400,000 infected PCs
  • A Cyber insurance offers financial protection, but does not replace technical protection measures
  • The economic consequences of cyberattacks can be life-threatening
  • Modern security concepts combine prevention, detection and protection
  • German companies must understand their cyber security as a continuous process

Introduction: The growing threat of cyber attacks

The increasing interconnectedness of our business world not only brings benefits, but also opens doors for cyber criminals to exploit vulnerabilities. The digital threat landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. What was once considered a rare risk is now an everyday danger for companies of all sizes and industries.

The question of an appropriate Cybercrime protection is therefore becoming increasingly urgent. Many organizations are realizing that traditional security measures alone are no longer sufficient and are considering additional protective measures such as a Hacker attack insurance.

What are cyberattacks?

Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to compromise digital systems, networks or data. They are aimed at stealing sensitive information, damaging systems or extorting ransom money. The methods of attack are becoming increasingly sophisticated and difficult to detect.

Attack type Description Typical effects Protective measures
Malware Malware such as the Lumma Stealer, which infects systems Theft of access data, cryptocurrencies and documents Antivirus programs, regular updates
Ransomware Encryption of data with ransom demand Business interruption, financial losses Backups, emergency plans, Cybercrime protection
Phishing Attempts to deceive the disclosure of sensitive data Identity theft, unauthorized system access Employee training, e-mail filters
Zero-day exploits Exploitation of unknown security vulnerabilities (e.g. in VMware) Complete system compromise Patch management, Hacker attack insurance

One particularly dangerous example is the Lumma Stealer, a malware that specifically steals access data, cryptocurrencies and important documents. Equally worrying are security vulnerabilities in widely used software such as VMware, which can open the door to attackers.

The biggest weakness in cyber security is not technology, but people. Even the most advanced security systems can be bypassed with a single careless click.

Federal Office for Information Security (BSI)

Why are cyberattacks a risk for companies?

Cyber attacks represent a significant risk for companies that goes far beyond the immediate technical damage. The consequences can be life-threatening and affect various business areas.

The most serious effects include

  • Financial losses: Direct costs due to ransom payments, restoration of systems and data and loss of revenue during downtimes.
  • Data loss: Sensitive customer and business data can be stolen or irretrievably destroyed.
  • Reputational damage: The trust of customers and partners can be permanently shaken.
  • Legal consequences: Data protection violations can result in severe penalties under the GDPR.

Small and medium-sized companies in particular often underestimate their risk. They mistakenly consider themselves to be uninteresting targets, while cyber criminals target precisely these companies because of their often weaker security measures.

The economic consequences can be devastating. According to recent studies, almost 60% of small businesses do not recover after a serious cyberattack and have to cease operations within six months.

In view of this threat situation, the Comprehensive cybercrime protection increasingly important. A specialized Hacker attack insurance can help to cushion the financial consequences and support companies in coping with an attack.

The role of cyber insurance in corporate protection

In response to the growing threat landscape in the digital space, the Cyber insurance has become an indispensable instrument of corporate risk management. At a time when almost every company relies on digital infrastructures, this special form of insurance offers a financial shield against the diverse risks of the networked world.

The Cyber insurance complements technical security measures and forms an important element in the overall strategy for securing digital business processes. It steps in where even the best prevention measures can reach their limits.

Definition of cyber insurance

A Cyber insurance is a specialized insurance product that offers companies financial protection against the economic consequences of cyber attacks and data breaches. Unlike traditional insurance policies, which usually cover material damage, the IT security insurance to the special risks of the digital world.

At its core, it is a financial product that cushions the economic consequences of digital attacks and at the same time often offers support in dealing with cyber incidents. The insurance kicks in if preventive measures fail and a security incident occurs.

Modern cyber insurers are more than just cost reimbursers. They are increasingly acting as partners in crisis management and offer financial compensation as well as expertise in dealing with security incidents.

Coverage and benefits of cyber insurance

The benefits of cyber insurance are varied and cover different aspects of a cyber incident. The scope varies depending on the provider and tariff, but a comprehensive policy typically includes the following core benefits:

  • Forensic investigations - Financing of IT experts to analyze the attack, identify vulnerabilities and secure evidence
  • Data recovery - Assumption of the costs for the reconstruction of lost or damaged data after an attack
  • Business interruption losses - Compensation for lost sales and additional operating costs during a system failure
  • Ransom payments - Reimbursement of payments in the event of ransomware attacks and negotiation support
  • Third party liability claims - Protection against claims for damages in the event of data protection violations or breaches of confidentiality

Access to specialized teams of experts provided as part of the insurance benefit is particularly valuable for small and medium-sized companies. These Incident Response Teams provide support in crisis management and contribute expertise that is often not available internally.

The IT security insurance also frequently offers support with external communication. This includes notifying affected customers, dealing with media inquiries and fulfilling statutory reporting obligations to supervisory authorities such as the data protection authority.

It is important to understand that cyber insurance is not a substitute for basic security measures. Rather, it supplements these and forms a financial safety net in the event that technical and organizational protective measures are overcome. Most insurers even require certain security standards as a prerequisite for insurance cover.

In practice, the value of cyber insurance is particularly evident in the ability to react quickly after an incident. The immediate availability of expert teams and financial resources enables companies to limit damage and return to normal operations more quickly.

Current statistics on cyber insurance in Germany

Only around half of all ICT companies in Germany have a Insurance against cyber attacks - a figure that gives food for thought. Despite the increasing threat situation and the particular risks for technology-oriented companies, a significant proportion of this sector remains unprotected. The current figures raise important questions about the risk perception and protection strategies of German companies.

Insurance ratio for ICT companies

The information and communication technology sector is at the forefront of digital transformation. Nevertheless, only around 50% of these companies have a Insurance against cyber attacks completed. This rate seems particularly alarming when you consider that these companies in particular should have extensive technical expertise.

Experts see several reasons for this surprisingly low protection rate. On the one hand, many ICT companies are convinced that they are sufficiently protected by their own technical measures. Secondly, cost factors play a decisive role, as specialized cyber security policies often represent a considerable financial burden for smaller companies.

The correlation between company size and insurance cover is also remarkable. While the insurance rate for large ICT companies with more than 250 employees is around 72%, it falls to less than 40% for small companies with fewer than 50 employees.

Comparison with other sectors

A comparison of industries shows clear differences in the prevalence of cyber insurance. Financial service providers lead the statistics - around 68% of companies here have a corresponding policy. This can be explained by the strict regulatory requirements and the particular sensitivity of the data managed.

The rate in the manufacturing and retail sectors is worryingly low. Just 31% of manufacturing companies and 28% of retailers have a Cybersecurity policy completed. These sectors often underestimate their risk potential, even though modern production facilities and digital cash register systems offer considerable scope for attack.

With an insurance ratio of around 45%, the healthcare sector has a medium level of protection. In view of the particularly sensitive patient data and the potentially life-threatening consequences of cyberattacks on medical infrastructure, even this rate appears inadequate.

Industry Insurance quota Average premium Main risk factors
ICT companies 50% 3.200 € – 8.500 € Data theft, system failures
Financial service provider 68% 5.500 € – 12.000 € Financial fraud, identity theft
Manufacturing industry 31% 2.800 € – 7.200 € Production downtime, sabotage
Retail trade 28% 2.100 € – 5.800 € Payment data theft, customer data loss
Healthcare 45% 4.200 € – 9.600 € Patient data protection, system failures

There are many reasons for the different insurance ratios. In addition to industry-specific risk assessments, general safety awareness, regulatory requirements and economic factors also play a role. Smaller companies are more likely to forego Insurance against cyber attackseven though their very existence could be threatened in the event of damage.

The regional differences within Germany are also noteworthy. In metropolitan areas such as Munich, Hamburg and Berlin, the insurance rate across all sectors is around 12 percentage points higher than in rural regions. This could be due to a higher perception of risk in urban centers or better availability of information.

Risks despite insurance: what remains unprotected?

Although cyber insurance offers an important protective shield, there are numerous risks that even the best policy cannot cover. Many companies are lulled into a false sense of security after taking out cyber insurance. They overlook the fact that certain losses and consequences of cyber attacks may fall outside the scope of cover. A comprehensive understanding of these gaps is crucial for a realistic assessment of your own protection status.

Typical exclusions in policies

A closer look at the insurance conditions often reveals surprising exclusions. One Data leakage insurance for example, often does not cover damage caused by a lack of security measures in the company itself. If basic protective measures are missing or outdated, insurers can refuse to provide cover.

Even with a Ransomware insurance there are important restrictions. Many policies exclude payments to sanctioned entities - a problem as the identity of the attackers often remains unclear. In addition, insurers can refuse cover if known security gaps have not been closed in time.

  • Reputational damage and long-term customer losses
  • Loss of intellectual property and trade secrets
  • Business interruptions due to cyber attacks on suppliers
  • Damage caused by internal sabotage or deliberate misconduct by employees
  • Costs for system improvements after an attack

Particularly problematic: many insurance companies limit their benefits in the event of large-scale cyber attacks that affect several policyholders at the same time. Such "systemic risks" could exceed insurers' capacities and lead to reduced payouts.

The importance of preventive measures

Insurance can mitigate financial losses, but it can neither recover lost data nor fully compensate for reputational damage. Prevention therefore remains the most important protective factor against cyber threats. Even the most comprehensive Data leakage insurance does not replace the need for robust security measures.

Preventive measures should cover at least the following areas:

  • Regular security audits and vulnerability analyses
  • Prompt installation of security updates and patches
  • Implementation of multi-factor authentication
  • Regular data backups with offline copies
  • Training all employees on safety issues

The combination of technical protective measures and trained employees forms the first line of defense. One Ransomware insurance should be seen as a second level of protection that takes effect if preventive measures fail. Companies that neglect both aspects risk damage that threatens their existence.

Experts recommend a holistic approach: insurance should only be one element of a comprehensive IT security strategy. It is particularly important to continuously adapt security measures to new threats. What was secure yesterday may already be vulnerable today - a dynamic that no insurance policy alone can cope with.

Why cyber insurance is not enough

The Digital risk protection cyber insurance is just one building block in the complex structure of a company's IT security. Although insurance policies can cushion financial losses following a cyber attack, they do not offer active protection against the attacks themselves. This gap between financial protection and actual prevention makes it clear why companies should not rely solely on insurance.

Just as household contents insurance can replace the value of stolen items, but does not prevent burglars from getting into the house, the best IT security insurance cannot ward off an attack. It only takes effect once the damage has already been done. This reactive nature of insurance explains why it can only be part of a more comprehensive security strategy.

The human component

Despite all the technical protective measures, the human factor remains the biggest weak point in IT security. Over 90% of all successful cyber attacks start with social engineering or phishing attacks, where employees unwittingly give attackers access to systems. While cyber insurance can cover the financial consequences of such attacks, it cannot prevent employees from clicking on a fraudulent link.

Particularly insidious are targeted spear phishing attacks that are tailored to individual employees. These attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are difficult to detect even for trained eyes. Regular training and awareness-raising measures are therefore essential to raise employees' risk awareness.

Another problem is that even if insurance covers the costs of data loss, it cannot fully compensate for the reputational damage a company suffers as a result of a cyber attack. Restoring customer trust often takes years and goes far beyond the financial aspects that insurance can cover.

Technological risks and their management

The technological landscape is constantly changing, and threats are evolving with it. Zero-day exploits - attacks that take advantage of previously unknown security vulnerabilities - pose a particular challenge. IT security insurance offers no preventative protection against these threats, only financial compensation after a successful attack.

The increasing complexity of modern IT infrastructures with cloud services, mobile devices and IoT components significantly increases the attack surface. Every new technology brings with it potential vulnerabilities that need to be actively managed. Insurance cannot eliminate these risks, it can only mitigate their financial impact.

Particularly problematic: Many insurance companies require certain safety standards in order to pay out in the event of a claim. If these standards are not met, the insurance cover may not apply. However, compliance with these standards requires continuous investment in IT security - precisely the kind of proactive measures that need to complement an insurance policy.

Risk category Covered by insurance Requires active management Recommended measures
Phishing attacks Financial consequential losses Prevention and early detection Employee training, e-mail filters
Ransomware Ransom payments (partial) Prevention of infection Backup strategies, patch management
Data loss Restoration costs Data backup and protection Encryption, regular backups
Zero-day exploits Damage repair System hardening, fast response Network segmentation, monitoring

Effective protection against cyber attacks therefore requires a holistic approach. This must include technical security measures, regular updates, vulnerability management and a company-wide security culture. The Digital risk protection insurance is an important, but only a single component in the overall concept.

Companies should therefore view their cyber security strategy as an ecosystem in which various components are interlinked. Cyber insurance can mitigate the financial consequences of an attack, but only in combination with proactive protective measures can a truly robust security concept be created against the diverse and constantly evolving cyber threats.

Best practices for comprehensive protection

Companies that want to protect themselves effectively against cybercrime rely on a triad of employee training, technical measures and insurance cover. A Holistic cybercrime protection combines preventive strategies with reactive hedging. While a Hacker attack insurance financial consequences, well thought-out protective measures prevent it from getting that far in the first place.

The implementation of best practices not only protects against direct attacks, but often also improves the conditions offered by insurers. Many providers grant discounts if companies demonstrably invest in their IT security and implement preventive measures.

Training and awareness programs

Employees are both the biggest vulnerability and the first line of defense against cyber attacks. Regular training transforms them from potential security risks into active defenders of the company's IT.

  • Phishing detection training: Employees learn to identify suspicious emails and react correctly.
  • Password hygiene: Training on creating and managing secure passwords.
  • Simulated attacks: Controlled phishing tests that mimic real threats and reinforce learning effects.
  • Handling sensitive data: Guidelines for the secure handling of confidential information.

Practical exercises that simulate real-life scenarios are particularly effective. A company that carries out simulated phishing attacks on a monthly basis can reduce the success rate of such attacks by up to 75%. These measures complement the protection provided by a Hacker attack insurance optimal.

"People are not the weakest link in the safety chain, they are the most important. With the right training, every employee can become a safety expert."

Federal Office for Information Security

Technological measures to reduce risk

In addition to the human component, technical protective measures form the backbone of effective cybercrime protection. These technical barriers make it more difficult for attackers to gain access to sensitive systems and data.

The most important technological protection measures include

  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Prevents unauthorized access even with compromised passwords.
  • Regular security updates: Close known security gaps that could be exploited by attackers.
  • Network segmentation: Limits the spread of malware in the event of a successful attack.
  • Encryption technologies: Protect data both during transmission and at rest.

Structured patch management is particularly important as many successful attacks exploit known vulnerabilities. Companies should establish a clear process for identifying, prioritizing and implementing security updates.

Protective measure Effectiveness Implementation effort Cost efficiency
Employee training Very high Medium Very high
Multi-factor authentication High Low High
Network segmentation High High Medium
Hacker attack insurance Medium (reactive) Low Medium

The optimal strategy for the Cybercrime protection combines all of these elements. While technical measures and training reduce the likelihood of successful attacks, insurance serves as a financial safety net in the event that a security incident does occur.

Companies should regularly review their protective measures and adapt them to new threats. The cyber security landscape is constantly evolving and only those who stay on the ball can ensure effective protection.

Choosing the right cyber insurance

The decision for the right Cybersecurity policy requires a careful analysis of individual company risks and insurance options. Given the increasing number of cyber attacks, it is important for companies of all sizes to have not just any, but the Suitable cyber insurance to find. This should be optimally tailored to the specific threat scenarios and protection requirements.

Criteria for choosing insurance

Several factors play a decisive role in the selection of cyber insurance. First and foremost is the sum insured, which should be high enough to fully cover potential losses. Experts recommend using the annual turnover and the type of data stored as a guide.

The scope of cover is just as important. A good Cybersecurity policy should cover at least the following areas:

  • Costs for data recovery
  • Business interruption losses
  • Third party liability claims
  • Crisis management and PR measures
  • IT forensic investigations

Pay particular attention to the deductible. This can vary greatly depending on the provider and should be proportionate to the size of the company. Excesses that are too high can significantly limit the benefits of the insurance.

Geographical restrictions are an often overlooked aspect. For companies operating internationally, it is important that the policy offers worldwide protection. Some policies exclude certain countries or regions, which can lead to dangerous gaps in cover.

The response time in the event of damage can be crucial. Quick help after a cyberattack often minimizes the damage considerably. Check whether the insurer offers a 24/7 emergency service and how quickly experts are available.

The individual risk profile of your company should be the basis for every decision. An online retailer needs different protection than a manufacturing company or a healthcare provider. Industries with sensitive customer data, such as financial service providers or healthcare facilities, should attach particular importance to data protection aspects.

Well-known providers in the market

The German market for cyber insurance has grown significantly in recent years. Two main groups of providers can be distinguished: specialized cyber insurance providers and traditional insurance companies with cyber products.

Established providers include large insurance groups such as Allianz, AXA and Zurich, which offer comprehensive cyber policies. There are also specialized providers such as Hiscox or Chubb, which are distinguished by their particular expertise in the cyber sector.

Provider type Advantages Disadvantages Special features
Specialized providers High level of expertise, customized solutions Often higher premiums Comprehensive prevention services
Traditional insurers More favorable conditions, bundling discounts Less specialized expertise Integration with existing policies
Industry-specific providers Tailor-made solutions for specific sectors Limited flexibility Sector-specific risk assessment

When comparing different offers, pay particular attention to the small print. Hidden exclusions can be expensive in an emergency. Pay particular attention to clauses on gross negligence, pre-existing security gaps or certain types of attack.

The risk assessment by insurers has a direct influence on the level of premiums. Companies can often achieve better conditions through verifiable security measures. These include

  • Regular employee training
  • Implemented security standards (e.g. ISO 27001)
  • Current backup strategies
  • Documented emergency plans

Many insurers now also offer risk assessments to help companies improve their cyber security. These services can represent significant added value and should be taken into account when making a decision.

Choosing the right Cyber insurance is ultimately a balancing act between costs and benefits. A thorough analysis of your own risks, a careful comparison of offers and a realistic assessment of your protection needs are the key to making the best decision.

Case studies: companies with and without cyber insurance

Specific case studies show how differently companies with and without cyber insurance deal with attacks. The reality shows clear differences in how cyber incidents are handled, depending on whether insurance cover is in place or not. These case studies provide valuable insights into the practical implications of cyber insurance and highlight its role in crisis management.

Successful damage limitation through insurance

A medium-sized logistics company from Munich fell victim to a ransomware attack in 2022, in which criminals encrypted important company data and demanded a ransom of 200,000 euros. Thanks to their Ransomware insurance the company was able to call in a specialized IT forensics team provided by the insurer within two hours.

The rapid response made it possible to contain the attack and restore most of the systems within 48 hours. The insurance not only covered the costs for the forensic experts (around 50,000 euros), but also the expenses for restoring the data and the business interruption. The total loss amounted to around 120,000 euros - fully covered by the insurance.

Another example is an online retailer from Hamburg that experienced a data leak incident. The personal data of around 15,000 customers was compromised. The Data leakage insurance of the company was financed immediately:

  • The forensic investigation to identify the vulnerability
  • The legally required notification of all affected customers
  • A credit monitoring service for those affected
  • The cost of PR measures for damage limitation

The time factor played a decisive role in both cases. The immediate availability of experts and financial resources from the insurance company enabled a rapid response that significantly reduced the overall loss. It is particularly noteworthy that both companies were able to continue their business activities with minimal disruption.

Companies without insurance: What happened?

This contrasts with the case of a medium-sized advertising agency from Berlin, which fell victim to a similar ransomware attack without cyber insurance. Without immediate access to specialists, the response was delayed by several days. The costs for external IT forensic experts had to be paid out of the company's own pocket, which put a heavy strain on its financial reserves.

The business interruption lasted over two weeks, resulting in contractual penalties and the loss of several customers. The total damage amounted to around 280,000 euros - a sum that threatened the existence of the company, which had to lay off several employees as a result.

A cyberattack at a small craft business with 12 employees was particularly dramatic. Following a successful phishing attack, all customer data and order documents were encrypted. With no insurance cover and no IT department, the company faced enormous challenges:

  • No way to quickly finance professional help
  • Complete shutdown for more than three weeks
  • Loss of orders worth over 100,000 euros
  • Permanent damage to reputation in the regional business community

Eight months after the incident, the company had to file for bankruptcy. The owner later stated that a Ransomware insurance could have saved the company for an annual premium of around 2,000 euros.

This comparison makes it clear that although cyber insurance does not offer complete protection against attacks, it can make the difference between a manageable crisis and an existential threat in an emergency. The value lies not only in the financial protection, but above all in the immediate access to expertise and structured emergency processes.

The future of cyber insurance

Looking into the future of cyber insurance, clear trends are already emerging today that will permanently change the face of digital insurance. The cyber insurance market is in a constant state of flux, driven by the evolution of the threat landscape and new technological possibilities. Insurers and companies are faced with the challenge of not only reacting to current risks, but also anticipating future threat scenarios.

Trends and developments in the insurance sector

The Digital risk protection is increasingly evolving from static policies to dynamic, adaptable insurance models. Modern cyber insurance policies react more quickly to new forms of attack and continuously adapt their cover. This is a necessary development in a world where cyber criminals are refining their tactics on an almost daily basis.

Artificial intelligence and big data are revolutionizing risk assessment in the cyber insurance sector. Insurers are using advanced analytical methods to assess business risks more accurately and offer customized policies. These data-driven approaches enable more accurate pricing and reduce risk for both sides.

Another significant trend is the shift in focus from pure claims settlement to preventive services. Insurance companies are increasingly offering advice, training and security audits in order to avoid claims from the outset. This development makes insurers active partners in their customers' IT security strategy.

Quantum computers pose a particular challenge for the future. These could potentially overcome current encryption methods and thus open up completely new dimensions of risk. Forward-thinking insurers are already beginning to develop strategies for the post-quantum era and devise corresponding cover concepts.

The role of the legal framework

Regulatory requirements such as the GDPR, the IT Security Act and industry-specific regulations are having a significant impact on the market for Data protection insurance. The strict reporting obligations for security incidents and the threat of high fines make comprehensive protection essential for many companies.

At the same time, these regulations place new demands on the insurance products themselves. Insurers must ensure that their policies cover all relevant legal obligations and keep pace with the constantly evolving compliance requirements. This is leading to increasing specialization and differentiation in the market.

Innovative insurance models that respond more flexibly to the individual needs and risk profiles of companies are emerging for the future. Usage-based policies that are geared towards the company's actual security situation are becoming increasingly important. Collaborative approaches are also developing in which insurers and policyholders work together to continuously minimize risk.

Feature Traditional cyber insurance Future model of cyber insurance Advantages of the future model
Risk assessment Static questionnaires, annual review Continuous monitoring, AI-supported analysis More precise assessment, prompt adjustment
Pricing model Fixed annual premium based on industry and size Dynamic premiums depending on security level Fairer pricing, incentive for safety measures
Scope of services Mainly claims settlement after incidents Preventive services plus claims settlement Reducing the probability of incidents
Cooperation Transactional relationship Strategic partnership Common interest in risk minimization

Conclusion: Cyber insurance as part of a holistic IT security strategy

The digital threat landscape is constantly evolving and presenting companies with ever new challenges. One Insurance against cyber attacks offers financial protection, but can only be seen as one component of a comprehensive security strategy.

Summary of the most important findings

As our analysis shows, cyber insurance has become indispensable for most companies today. The fact that only around half of ICT companies are insured points to a worrying protection gap. The Digital risk protection by an insurance company only takes effect once the damage has already occurred - it does not replace preventive measures.

It is particularly important to understand the limits of cover: Not all losses are covered and certain scenarios remain unprotected. Careful selection of the right policy is therefore crucial for effective protection.

The path to more IT security in companies

A holistic approach to IT security combines technical solutions with organizational measures and human factors. Insurance against cyber attacks forms the financial safety net, while regular employee training, up-to-date security systems and a structured emergency plan represent the first line of defense.

Companies should regularly review and adapt their security strategy. Optimal digital risk protection consists of a balanced mix of preventive measures and reactive protection. Ideally, cyber insurance is never used - but if it is, it can make the decisive difference between a manageable crisis and damage that threatens a company's existence.

FAQ

What exactly is cyber insurance?

Cyber insurance is a special form of insurance that provides companies with financial protection if they fall victim to cyber attacks. It typically covers the costs of forensic investigations, data recovery, business interruption and third-party liability claims for data breaches. In addition, many policies offer access to expert teams for crisis management and IT forensics, which can be particularly valuable for smaller companies.

Why should my company take out insurance against cyber attacks?

Cyber attacks can lead to significant financial losses - from direct costs for data recovery to business interruption and loss of reputation. Cyber insurance provides a financial safety net in the event that preventative measures fail. As case studies show, it can make the difference between a manageable crisis and an existential threat in an emergency, especially for small and medium-sized companies.

How many companies in Germany have cyber insurance?

Current statistics show that around every second company in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector has insurance against cyber attacks. In other sectors, the rate is significantly lower in some cases, although there are considerable risks there too. These figures indicate a protection gap that is worrying in view of the increasing cyber threats.

What does cyber insurance typically cover?

Typical benefits include the costs of IT forensics, data recovery, business interruption, ransom payments in the event of ransomware attacks and third-party liability claims in the event of data breaches. Many policies also include crisis management services, PR advice for reputation recovery and legal support. However, the exact services vary greatly between different providers and policies.

What risks are typically not covered by data protection insurance?

Many insurance policies exclude damage caused by a lack of security measures or due to known but unresolved vulnerabilities. Reputational damage, loss of intellectual property or business interruption due to cyber attacks on third parties (such as suppliers) are also often not covered or only partially covered. It is important to check the small print of the policy carefully.

Is cyber insurance sufficient as the sole protective measure?

No, cyber insurance alone does not offer sufficient protection. Although it can mitigate financial losses, it can neither restore lost data nor fully compensate for reputational damage. A holistic approach is required, in which insurance is just one element of a comprehensive IT security strategy that also includes preventative technical measures and employee training.

What preventive measures should be implemented in addition to ransomware insurance?

The most important preventative measures include regular employee training on topics such as phishing detection, the implementation of multi-factor authentication, regular security updates, network segmentation and encryption technologies. Structured patch management is particularly important, as many successful attacks exploit known security vulnerabilities. Regular backups that are stored offline are also essential.

What criteria should I use to select a cyber security policy?

Important factors include the amount and scope of cover, deductibles, specific exclusions, geographical restrictions, response times in the event of a claim and additional services such as IT forensics or crisis management. The policy should be tailored to the individual risk profile of your company - an online retailer has different needs than a manufacturing company or a healthcare provider.

Which providers of IT security insurance are there in Germany?

The German market offers a large number of providers of cyber insurance, including both specialized insurers and traditional insurance companies with cyber products. Well-known providers include Allianz, AXA, Hiscox, Zurich and Munich Re. Each provider has different strengths and focuses, which is why a careful comparison of offers is recommended.

How will the market for hacker attack insurance develop in the future?

The market is moving towards more dynamic policies that cover new forms of attack more quickly, more precise risk assessment models thanks to AI and big data, and a stronger focus on preventive services. In addition, usage-based policies that are geared towards the company's actual security situation or collaborative approaches in which insurers and policyholders work together to minimize risk could gain in importance.

What influence does the legal framework have on cyber insurance?

Regulations such as the GDPR, the IT Security Act and industry-specific regulations are having a significant impact on the cyber insurance market. The increasing reporting obligations for security incidents and the potentially high fines make digital risk insurance indispensable for many companies. At the same time, these regulations also place new demands on the insurance products themselves.

Can cybercrime insurance also make sense for small companies?

Yes, cyber insurance can be particularly valuable for small companies, as they often do not have their own comprehensive IT security resources. A successful cyber attack can threaten the existence of smaller companies. The insurance not only offers financial protection, but also access to teams of experts who can respond quickly in the event of an emergency - resources that small companies can hardly maintain internally.
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